If you’ve ever seen photos of Korea covered in a mysterious, hazy cloud, that’s likely fine dust (“mise meonji” in Korean).
Here’s all you need to know before your trip!
Quick Summary
- Air pollution in Korea can be bad whether it’s yellow dust from China or locally created fine dust.
- Korean cities like Seoul have higher-than-recommended levels of particulate matter.
- For sensitive people, I’d recommend taking Claritin, carrying a mask just in case, and packing a portable air purifier if you have one.
- Air quality fluctuates, so you’ll get plenty of clear, blue-sky days too.
What Causes Korea’s Air Pollution?
Air pollution in Korea mainly comes from two sources. Domestic emissions and air pollutants from nearby countries, especially China.
According to the recent YTN Science article, full-blown fine dust season starts with smog from China.
Seasonal winds carry yellow dust in spring and fine dust in winter over from China, leading to a noticeable uptick in air pollution levels.
Also, local industrial activity, vehicle emissions, and heating in colder months contribute.
How Bad Is It, Really?
On some days, the air quality can be crystal clear, but on others, the fine dust levels spike, giving the sky a murky gray tint.
On these high-pollution days, Koreans wear face masks and check air quality apps to track pollution levels. Even the iPhone Weather widget tells you the air quality when you’re in Korea.
According to the International Trade Administration, the World Health Organization (WHO) warns that fine dust or particulate matter (PM) in Korea poses a serious health risk.
What’s the Korean Government’s Response?
Korean government is actively working to improve air quality.
They try to reduce coal usage, limit vehicle emissions, and even deploy air-purifying buses.
Schools often monitor air quality and keep students indoors on high-pollution days.
Should You Worry?
Air pollution is definitely an issue, but being prepared makes a big difference.
Monitor through an air quality app, and always carry a mask in case the air gets bad.
If you’re sensitive like me, I take Claritin before I go out, bring a mask with me, and grab my portable air purifier for overnight trips.
Some hotels offer air purifier rental for free of charge, so make sure to ask!
The good news is that the air quality fluctuates, so you’ll get plenty of clear, blue-sky days too.
